Global Studies, Public Policy and Administration, Social Entrepreneurship

Program Description:

UVA in Dominica

This course exposes students to the unique institutional dynamics of Dominica as the country recovers from the devastation of Hurricane Maria. Social entrepreneurs across the island are developing innovative and sustainable responses to increase climate resilience and economic opportunity. Students will not only learn from numerous live case studies but will also be invited to help problem solve and use critical thinking skills to explore alternative approaches in addressing local challenges with entrepreneurs and government representatives.

Location

The course takes place in Dominica, a small island developing state (SIDS) in the Caribbean located between Martinique and Guadeloupe. Students will stay outside of Dominica’s capital in Rosseau but will explore the majority of the island.

Courses

This 3-credit-course presents how local resources and policy are used to promote social entrepreneurship to sustain growth and economic activity. This is a multi-disciplinary experience blending field visits to offer students exposure to a diversity of local enterprises with an emphasis on those with successful and innovative social components. This program will be cross-listed in the School of Commerce.

Interested students have the opportunity to participate in the Sustainable Enterprise Resilience Lab as a student research in the semester leading up to the May program.

Social Entrepreneurship in Small Island Developing States (SIDS): Dominica
(LPPS 4550 or LPPS 5550 or COMM 4589 or GSGS 3559; 3 credits)

Faculty

Professor Bevin teaches entrepreneurship at the Batten and McIntire Schools. Originally from Dominica, Professor Bevin has always been very interested in supporting, promoting and developing social ventures in Dominica and the wider Caribbean region. In 2002, he founded a renewable energy company called the Dominica Sustainable Energy Corporation to research and develop renewable energy resources in Dominica.

Accommodation and Meals

Students will be housed at an Eco-Friendly resort in Dominica.

Cost and Financial Aid

The program cost and payment schedule are listed under the "Budget Sheets" link at the top of this page. Students with identifiable financial need are encouraged to apply for fellowships, scholarships, and financial aid.

Accessibility

The University of Virginia believes in providing reasonable accommodations for students with documented disabilities on an individual basis. If you believe that you would require adjustments in order to fully participate in this program, please contact the Student Disability Access Center at 434-243-5180 as early as possible in order to begin this dialogue.

Passport and Visa

All participants will need a valid passport in order to participate in the program. Students must ensure that their passport is valid at least six months past the program return date. All students must consult http://dominica.gov.dm/ for information about visa and other entry requirements. International students should meet with their International Student Advisor in the International Studies Office as part of the application process.

Health and Safety Information

All students considering Education Abroad should consult the Students Abroad section of the U.S. Department of State’s web-based travel resources and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Traveler’s Health web resources to research health, safety, and security conditions; visa requirements; immunization requirements; and recommendations on staying healthy and safe in their target destination(s). Students should also carefully review the UVA Education Abroad Health & Safety Abroad web page. Parents and guardians are strongly advised to review all of these resources, as well. UVA students and visiting students enrolled in UVA Education Abroad programs are subject to the University of Virginia’s Policy on Student International Travel.